It’s been a year since the world bid a fond farewell to Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. The queen, who passed away on September 8, 2022, at her beloved Balmoral estate in Scotland, left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. As the world remembered her, the British royal family paid tribute in a series of heartfelt gestures.
Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, chose to mark this poignant anniversary with a visit to Wales, a place close to the queen’s heart. At St. David’s Cathedral, they placed a bouquet of white flowers next to a portrait of the late queen, sharing a moment of silence and reflection. Their solemnity was evident, as they paid their respects during the church ceremony.
The royal couple also took to social media, sharing photos and sentiments. On X (formerly known as Twitter), they wrote, “A moment of reflection at St Davids Cathedral honouring Her Late Majesty and all that she did for communities like this around the UK, the Commonwealth and the world.” Their Instagram post read, “Today we remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. We all miss you. W & C.”
The images they shared showcased Queen Elizabeth in various stages of her life, from her regal attire to her affection for her beloved corgis. Notably, a photo captured her surrounded by her numerous grandchildren on a grand couch. The final image depicted a united royal family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, featuring King Charles and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s passing saw the British royal family and the nation paying tribute to her enduring legacy. King Charles III and Camilla commemorated the occasion at the family estate in Scotland, attending a service of remembrance at a nearby church where the late queen had worshipped.
The queen’s passing had led to a wave of national mourning, with hundreds of thousands of people paying their respects as they filed past her coffin. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized the profound impact she had, stating, “People across the U.K. will be reflecting today on what she meant to them and the example she set for us all.”
Military units marked the first anniversary by firing salutes at locations including the Tower of London and Green Park near Buckingham Palace. King Charles, in a heartfelt message, remembered his mother’s “long life” and “devoted service,” expressing gratitude for the support he and Camilla had received in their first year of reign.
Beyond the royal family, the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as “Fergie,” paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth. She recalled the queen’s mentorship, her role as a second mother, and grandmother to her daughters. Fergie shared photos of the queen at a young age, radiating warmth and joy.
Fergie also remembered the queen through her beloved corgis, Sandy and Muick, entrusted to her care after Her Majesty’s passing. These corgis had been a source of comfort to the queen, given to her by her son Prince Andrew and Fergie herself.
Princess Eugenie, Prince Andrew and Fergie’s daughter, joined in paying homage to her late grandmother. She fondly remembered the queen’s life of service, love, and dedication, expressing her gratitude and deep affection.
As the world looked back on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, it was clear that her memory continues to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and a grateful nation.
